Wildfire Smoke in Summit County

SUMMIT COUNTY - Because of wildfire activity in surrounding counties, smoke is visible in Summit County. While smoke levels may increase, especially in low-lying areas or valleys, light smoke is not expected to be a significant health concern.

If wildfire smoke causes visibility to be less than 5 miles in your neighborhood, smoke levels are unhealthy. References of 5-mile visibility are as follows:

If you are in downtown Dillon and unable to see Buffalo Mountain

If you are in Breckenridge and unable to see Peak 8

If you are at the Frisco Marina and unable to see Buffalo Mountain.

If smoke is thick, or becomes thick, in your neighborhood, you may want to remain indoors. This is especially true for those with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, the very young and the elderly. To mitigate exposure to smoke, public health officials are urging residents and visitors, especially high-risk individuals, to take the following precautions:

When driving, keep windows & vents closed. Run your air conditioner on recycle or recirculate mode to avoid drawing in outdoor air.

If you develop symptoms suggestive of lung or heart problems, including chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath or extreme fatigue, consult a medical provider as soon as possible.

For more information, contact Summit County Public Health (970-668–9161) or the Environmental Health Department (970-668-4070). Or get statewide air quality information from Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at www.colorado.gov/airquality/wildfire.aspx.